MATRIX FOSSILS IN MAINE AND MYANMAR

The term matrix fossil is defined as fossilization within a gravel, silt or clay matrix. A possible model of a pre-glacial Maine matrix is seen in the Irrawaddy Series of Myanmar, consisting of 6000 meters of gravel, silt and clay (Bender 1983) and containing vertebrate and wood fossils (Chhibber 1934). The search in Myanmar led to fossil palm wood, but also claw and tooth fossils that replicate fossils found in Maine.

The stratigraphic situation in Maine is such that the Mesozoic stage has been erased (Churchill-Dixon 2007) and the notion of fossils is met with skepticism. A benefit of an erased landscape is that it has been excavated, leaving fossils available on the surface. These fossils are visible and what is needed is a systematic examination of traits that would verify fossilization. The following traits are discussed: structure, texture and distortion.

The discussion begins with the mineralization of fossil wood with a comparison of specimens from Maine and Myanmar. Structure is discussed in relation to fossil claws, because universal organization is always present. Texture is illustrated as bone or bone fragments exhibiting a porous or fibrous surface. The discussion of distortion is confined to claw fossils, which are cross-referenced. There are three distinct distortion patterns. An example of one pattern is a flattening on a side which appears to be the result of having collapsed under its own weight. Also included is a photo gallery of examples.

The matrix fossils of Maine are a potential source of paleo-biodiversity and new environmental information. It would seem reasonable to assume that Myanmar might not be the only place with similar findings.

Literature Cited

Bender, F. 1983, Geology of Burma,Gebruder Borntraeger, Berlin.

Chhibber, H.L. Geology of Burma, MacMillan and Co., London.

Churchill-Dixon L., 2007, Maine’s Fossil Record: the Paleozoic, Maine Geologic Survey, Department of Conservation, Augusta.